Insights into the consequence of (Al-Zn) dual-doping on structural, morphological, and optoelectrical properties of CdO thin films.

The present study explores the structural, morphological, optical, and electrical properties of spray pyrolyzed (Al-Zn) dual-doped CdO thin films. The un-doped and (Al-Zn) dual-doped CdO thin films have been deposited on glass substrate using spray pyrolysis route at 325 °C. The physical properties of the doped samples were analyzed as a function of Zn concentration (2-5 mol%) with constant Al (3 mol%) concentration. XRD analysis confirms the successful incorporation of (Al-Zn) dual-doping into CdO crystal as well as the polycrystalline nature was evident. No phase transitions were apparent from XRD data while revealing the single cubic structure of all the samples. The surface morphology of the samples studied by SEM. It shows the formation of rock-shaped microstructure and the variation of grain size with doping concentrations. Optical analysis was done using UV-vis spectroscopy within the range of 300-1200 nm. Maximum value of transmittance was attained for 3% (Zn-Al)-doped CdO sample. The dual doping exhibits the broadening of band gap values (2.61-3.84 eV) whereas a decrease in extinction coefficient was noticed as a function of Zn doping concentration. Electrical analysis was done using the four-probe method and a high resistivity was seen for higher Zn concentration. Obtained results and precise comparison with some similar films suggested that 2% Zn and 3% Al co-doping can be a suitable candidate for optoelectronic devices.

Effects of yttrium doping on structural, electrical and optical properties of barium titanate ceramics.

In this report, we study the Yttrium-doped Barium Titanate (Y-BT) Ba1 - xYxTiO3 (with x = 0.00, 0.01, 0.03, 0.05, 0.07 mmol) perovskite ceramics synthesized by sol-gel method. The as-made powder samples were pressed into a pellet shape and subsequently sintered at 1300 °C for 5 h in air. The structural, morphological, electrical, and optical properties of the synthesized samples were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), impedance analyzer, and UV-Vis-NIR Spectroscopy respectively. The XRD study revealed the formations of single phase tetragonal structure of Barium Titanate (BT) with ∼23-33 nm mean crystallite size. The crystallite size increases initially with Y-doping, found at about 33 nm for x = 0.01, and reduces for increase in Y3+ concentration further. The microstructural study from FESEM depicts the uniform distribution of compact and well-faceted grain growth for Y-BT in contrast with undoped barium titanate. The average grain size (∼0.29-0.78 µm) of the Y-BT decreases with increasing doping concentration. Frequency-dependent impedance analyses show enhanced dielectric properties like dielectric constant, quality factor, and conductivity with low dielectric loss in the presence of Yttrium. The optical bandgap energy (∼2.63-3.72 eV) estimated from UV-Vis-NIR diffuse reflection data shows an increasing trend with a higher concentration of yttrium doping.

Phloroglucinol for acceleration of labour: double blind, randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the effects of Phloroglucinol in acceleration of labour and its adverse effects on mother and foetus. METHODS: A double blind randomized, placebo controlled trial was conducted on 100 patients in active phase of uncomplicated labour selected by convenient sampling. Patients were given Phloroglucinol or Placebo (distilled water) intravenously. Progress of labour was plotted on Partogram. Any adverse effects of the drug on mother and fetus were noted. Student's t-test was applied for statistical analysis. RESULTS: In patients receiving Phloroglucinol there was a mean 34% reduction in duration of 1st stage of labour and a mean 23% reduction in 2nd stage as compared to Placebo group respectively. Blood loss >500ml was observed in 2% patients. Otherwise there were no adverse effects on mother or foetus. CONCLUSION: Phloroglucinol shortens the duration of labour, is non toxic to both mother and fetus and does not cause primary post partum haemorrhage.

Premenstrual syndrome: frequency and severity in young college girls.

OBJECTIVES: To find out the frequency of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in young college girls and to describe the severity of emotional, physical and behavioural symptoms. METHODS: An observational study was conducted at the Khyber Medical College, Peshawar by convenient sampling on 384 young girls. Data was collected over two cycles by filling a 29 items shortened premenstrual assessment form based on Moos Menstrual Distress Questionnaire after taking consent from medical students. Results were given according to both criteria i.e. ICD-10 and DSM-IV. RESULTS: The frequency of premenstrual syndrome was 53% according to ICD-10 criteria, among which 42% was mild, 18.2% moderate and 31.7% severe. A total of 64 girls (18.2%) met the DSM-IV criteria for severe PMS or Premenstrual Dysphoric disorder (PMDD). The order of frequency of symptoms occurring in PMS was general body discomfort, anxiety, backache, fatigue and depression. Most frequently reported symptoms in PMDD group were anger, anxiety, stress, depression, fatigue and general body discomfort. CONCLUSION: Premenstrual syndrome is a common problem in young girls. Doctors should adopt comprehensive measures to reduce its incidence and improve the quality of life in the affected.